Black women shine in Star Wars: The Acolyte with Amandla Stenberg & Jodie Turner-Smith

The Star Wars universe is expanding with the highly anticipated series “The Acolyte,” set to debut this June on Disney+. This groundbreaking show explores a new era in the Star Wars timeline and features two talented Black actresses, Amandla Stenberg and Jodie Turner-Smith, in major roles. Their casting marks a significant step forward in representation and diversity within the beloved sci-fi franchise.

“The Acolyte” is set during the High Republic era, approximately 100 years before the events of “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace.” This period is a golden age for the Jedi Order, who serve as guardians of peace and justice in the galaxy. However, as the series unfolds, a shocking crime spurs an investigation that uncovers emerging dark side powers, threatening the harmony of the Republic.

Amandla Stenberg, known for her roles in “The Hate U Give” and “The Hunger Games,” plays the lead character, Mae. Stenberg’s casting was integral to the show’s development, with artwork conceptualized around her likeness. Showrunner Leslye Headland describes Mae as a “mystery-box character,” hinting at her complex journey throughout the series. Rumors suggest that Stenberg may portray twins with connections to both the light and dark sides of the Force, adding an intriguing layer to her role.

One popular theory is that Mae’s character is a former Jedi Padawan who failed to find her Kyber crystal during the traditional Gathering ceremony on Ilum. This failure could have led to her expulsion from the Jedi Order, setting the stage for a potential turn to the dark side. Some speculate that Mae’s story arc may involve seeking revenge against the Jedi who rejected her, possibly aligning herself with emerging Sith forces.

Jodie Turner-Smith, acclaimed for her performances in “Queen & Slim” and “Anne Boleyn,” joins the cast as Mother Aniseya, the leader of a coven of witches. Turner-Smith has expressed excitement about being part of a project that challenges the Star Wars universe’s traditionally patriarchal setting. While details about her character remain scarce, it is speculated that Mother Aniseya’s storyline will intersect with the emergence of forces from the dark side.

Rumors circulate that Mother Aniseya’s coven may be connected to ancient Sith practices or dark-side artifacts. Some fans theorize that her character could be a key player in the Sith’s secret infiltration of the Jedi Order, a central theme of “The Acolyte.” Turner-Smith’s mysterious role has sparked discussions about the potential for morally gray characters who operate outside the traditional Jedi-Sith dichotomy.

Including Stenberg and Turner-Smith in prominent roles is a testament to the growing commitment to diversity and representation within the Star Wars franchise. Historically, Black characters have been underrepresented, with notable exceptions like Billy Dee Williams as Lando Calrissian in the original trilogy and Samuel L. Jackson as Mace Windu in the prequels. Recent films and series have made strides in featuring Black actors, such as John Boyega and Naomi Ackie in the sequel trilogy and Rosario Dawson and Carl Weathers in “The Mandalorian.”

However, “The Acolyte” takes representation further by centering its narrative around Black women. Stenberg, who identifies as non-binary and gay, has spoken about the significance of making the sci-fi genre a safer space for Black fans. “To be in any way, shape, or form a part of the wave that is ushering in inclusion and safety for Black nerds, it’s my dream come true,” they said in an interview with Entertainment Weekly.

The High Republic era, in which “The Acolyte” is set, has been explored through novels, comics, and an animated series. This period showcases the Jedi Order’s peak, with a more nuanced portrayal of their practices and beliefs. The High Republic stories have introduced concepts such as the Way Seekers, and Jedi who prioritize the will of the Force over the orders of the Council and have delved into the complexities of attachment and the temptation of the dark side.

By setting “The Acolyte” in this era, the show has the opportunity to expand upon these themes and offer fresh perspectives on Star Wars mythology. The mystery-thriller genre also allows for a deeper exploration of the dark side’s insidious nature and how it can infiltrate even the most noble institutions.

The trailer for “The Acolyte” has fueled speculation about the dark side’s influence on the characters played by Stenberg and Turner-Smith. One scene shows Mae entering a cave which suggests that Mae may confront her darkness and potentially grapple with the dark side’s temptation.

Another intriguing moment in the trailer features Mother Aniseya surrounded by robed figures, possibly her coven. The visual parallels to Sith acolytes have led some fans to speculate that Mother Aniseya’s group may be connected to the Sith’s secret machinations. The trailer’s tagline, “In an era of light, darkness rises,” further hints at the looming threat of the dark side.

As “The Acolyte” gears up for its premiere on June 4, anticipation is high for how Stenberg and Turner-Smith’s characters will navigate the challenges and moral ambiguities of the High Republic era. Their presence in leading roles is a powerful statement about the importance of representation and the potential for diverse voices to enrich beloved franchises.

The Star Wars universe has always been a space for epic storytelling. However, embracing inclusivity and centering Black women in “The Acolyte” sends a message that everyone has a place in this galaxy far, far away. As Stenberg and Turner-Smith step into the spotlight, they are breaking new ground for representation and paving the way for future generations of diverse talent to shine in the Star Wars saga.

The rumors surrounding their characters’ potential ties to the dark side add an extra layer of intrigue to the series. Will Mae’s journey lead her down a path of vengeance and darkness? Is Mother Aniseya’s coven connected to the Sith’s secret plans? These questions have sparked intense discussion among fans, who eagerly await the answers that “The Acolyte” will provide.

Regardless of their characters’ paths, Stenberg and Turner-Smith’s involvement in “The Acolyte” represents a significant milestone for representation in the Star Wars franchise. Their performances promise to bring depth, nuance, and fresh perspectives to the Star Wars universe, captivating audiences and inspiring new fans.

The Star Wars universe has always been a space for epic storytelling, but by embracing inclusivity and centering Black women in “The Acolyte,” it sends a message that everyone has a place in this galaxy far, far away. As Stenberg and Turner-Smith step into the spotlight, they are breaking new ground for representation and paving the way for future generations of diverse talent to shine in the Star Wars saga.